Deloitte Backs Ghana’s Digital Future in High-Level Meeting

Digital

A team from Deloitte has congratulated the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations on his appointment.

The meeting, led by Kofi Awuah, partner, Risk Advisory, discussed matters of mutual interest and explored potential collaborations.

The Hon. Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), shared his vision for Ghana’s digital transformation. With a threefold mandate, the ministry is focused on communication, digital technology, and inclusivity.

He emphasized the importance of creating a digitally inclusive, data-driven ecosystem, leveraging technology to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance citizen experiences.

On their part, the Deloitte team shared their own experiences working with the ministry. They highlighted their contributions to NITA’s Integrated ICU Certification, digital assets projects, and cyber security initiatives. The team expressed their enthusiasm for continuing to support the ministry’s agenda, particularly in areas like regulatory frameworks, digital transformation, and innovation.

The minister expressed appreciation for Deloitte’s support and shared his plans for the $50 million fintech fund, which would be used to provide business advisory support to startups.

This fund would be a revolving fund, allowing the government to invest in startups, provide guidance, and then exit as the startups grow, reinvesting the returns into new initiatives.

A key aspect of the minister’s plan, he indicated, is the creation of a data repository, which would integrate data assets from various government agencies. This would provide a single, unified view of the country’s data, enabling informed decision-making.

To achieve this, the minister is working to revise outdated legislation, creating a legal framework that supports data exchange and mandates agencies to submit data to the data repository.

Present at the meeting were Abena Biney, Partner, Audit and Chief Sustainability Officer, Deloitte West Africa; Edward Aikins, Senior Manager, Consulting; Nina Korley, Senior Manager, Risk Advisory; and Charles Nixon Yeboah, Head of Growth Office.

Source: Extensia

Kenyan CEOs Optimistic on Growth, AI Integration

AI

Nairobi — Despite geopolitical and trade tensions, Kenyan CEOs remain optimistic about economic growth, with 60 percent expecting global improvement and 48 percent expressing confidence in the local economy, according to PwC’s 2025 CEO Survey released today.

While optimism prevails, business leaders cite inflation (35 percent), macroeconomic volatility (28 percent), geopolitical conflicts (25 percent), and cyber risks (25 percent) as key concerns.

Still, 65 percent believe their businesses will thrive for over a decade, driven by strategic reinvention, AI adoption, and sustainability investments.

Kenyan CEOs are actively integrating AI to boost efficiency and decision-making. The survey reveals that 50 percent trust AI in key processes and 50 percent expect AI integration in tech platforms, among others.

From automating tasks to improving customer experiences, AI is a major pillar of future business strategy.

To adapt to evolving market conditions, CEOs are developing new products (48 percent), targeting new customer bases (43 percent) and exploring alternative market channels (43 percent).

Sustainability is becoming a business priority, with 42 percent reporting increased revenue from climate-friendly investments and 26 percent citing cost reductions from sustainability measures

However, 50 percent of CEOs have yet to invest in climate-friendly initiatives, citing regulatory hurdles (33 percent), low external demand (23 percent), and financing challenges (23 percent).

PwC Eastern Africa’s Regional Senior Partner Peter Ngahu emphasized the need for reinvention and climate adaptation, stating:

“Kenyan CEOs are focused on innovation to remain competitive, but climate change is posing serious challenges to agriculture, food security, and livelihoods. Coordinated efforts in adaptation and mitigation strategies are crucial for resilience.”

Source: Extensia

American Towers Corporation (ATC) Kenya Partners with ProFuturo Foundation to Transform Educational Landscape in Kenya through Digital Innovation These devices are designed to enrich the learning experience, support interactive teaching methods, and provide students with access to a wealth of digital educational content

This partnership is expected to directly benefit over 11,000 students and 470 teachers during the next three years in 41 schools in Nairobi and its surroundings, and Kitui. The collaboration in Kenya is a key part of a global partnership between American Tower and ProFuturo Foundation to reduce gaps in access, use and quality of educational resources in seven countries in Africa and Latin America.
American Tower Corporation (ATC) (www.AmericanTower.com/)Kenya, a leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure, and ProFuturo Foundation, a global initiative for educational innovation through technology established by the Telefónica Foundation and the “la Caixa” Foundation, are proud to announce their partnership aimed at advancing digital learning in Kenya. This collaboration has facilitated the distribution of tablets to 30 schools across Nairobi and Machakos Counties, marking a significant milestone in enhancing digital access for students. The agreement has been expanded to include an additional 11 schools in Kitui.

Over the next three years, this partnership is expected to benefit more than 11,000 students and 470 teachers positively and directly. The implementation of this project is led by two local partners, Don Bosco Development Outreach Network (DBDON) and the Diocese of Kitui.

Through its Digital Communities program, which provides digitally connected, technology-equipped spaces offering digital literacy and education for youth, financial education and vocational training for adults, and healthcare services, ATC Kenya believes that this partnership with ProFuturo will reach youths and students across Kenya, promoting innovative practices and strengthening digital educational transformation.

The devices distributed by ATC Kenya and ProFuturo Foundation will improve learning experiences, equip learners with technology to foster new skills and knowledge, and create pathways for future success, helping to close educational gaps.

ATC Kenya CEO, George Odenyo, noted that: “This project is a testament of ATC Kenya’s vision of building a more connected Kenya. It aims to enhance digital access and foster partnerships in the communities where we operate. We constantly work with key partners to ensure that our Digital Communities are well equipped to employ the use of technology for digital equity, literacy, and career upskilling-efforts that are geared towards enhancing the lives of community members”.

Magdalena Brier, General Manager of ProFuturo Foundation, celebrates this agreement that “reinforces the commitment of the two organizations against the digital divide and the education gap. The alliance between ProFuturo Foundation and American Tower is a big step to improve educational opportunities for the most vulnerable. We are very honored with their support for what we have been doing since 2016 and I continually think about each of the teachers, boys and girls who will benefit, because, together, we are going to contribute to transform their lives.”

The ATC Kenya and ProFuturo Foundation partnership will also address educational disparities brought about by the digital divide by equipping schools with high-quality tablets. These devices are designed to enrich the learning experience, support interactive teaching methods, and provide students with access to a wealth of digital educational content.

The devices are pre-installed with educational applications and resources to support various subjects and enhance classroom learning.

Source: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of American Tower Corporation.

Eswatini launches 5G, accelerating its digital transformation

State-owned operator Eswatini Mobile announced the launch of 5G in the kingdom on Monday, March 24. This initiative could support the government’s digital transformation ambitions, as it seeks to integrate the technology to make digital services more efficient and accessible.

“The launch of 5G is not just about improving internet speeds; it marks a fundamental shift in how Emaswati connect, communicate, and conduct business. From improving educational opportunities to driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and empowering communities, 5G is set to transform every aspect of life in the kingdom,” the state-owned company said in a statement.

In a study published in 2021, the American technology company Dell Technologies already explained that 5G guarantees transmission speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G or previous networks, as well as reduced latencies and an unprecedented level of network capacity. The company adds that this technology will pave the way for even more advanced and innovative applications, enabling increased connectivity in real time and at any time, thus facilitating the digital transformation of various sectors.

Meanwhile, Eswatini was ranked 113th in the world by the United Nations according to the e-Government Development Index (EGDI) in 2024. The kingdom recorded a score of 0.6081 out of 1. This is above the African average (0.4247 out of 1), but below the world average (0.6382 out of 1).

Furthermore, a 2024 study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) found that Eswatini’s digital readiness is “systematic,” meaning the country is making structured progress in key areas of digital transformation based on identified priorities. “With an overall score of 2.6, Eswatini demonstrates progress across several dimensions of digital development, while highlighting areas requiring additional attention and investment.”

It’s worth remembering, however, that to seize the digital transformation opportunities offered by 5G, Eswatini authorities must invest in expanding the country’s network. Currently, the latest-generation mobile technology is only available in the cities of Matsapha and Manzini. Moreover, Swedish company Ericsson estimates the basic cost of deploying 5G in a country at between $3 billion and $8 billion. The Swedish company adds that an additional investment of 20 to 35 percent is then required to expand network coverage across the country.

Authorities also need to address the issue of 5G adoption, which requires compatible smartphones. The high cost of these devices could hamper 5G adoption and limit the use of digital services, whether government-sponsored or offered by startups.

Source: Agency EcoFin(extensia)

Repealing of E-Levy is a positive sign – Ken Ashigbey

The CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has described the repeal of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) as a positive development that will benefit Ghanaians and the telecom sector.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, March 26, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey commended the government for following through on its promise to abolish the tax.

Dr. Ashigbey revealed that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has scheduled a meeting with telecom operators on Friday, March 29, to discuss the technical processes required to implement the repeal.

“The GRA has invited us for a meeting, so we'll have a meeting on Friday morning. After that, as we await the President to assent to the bill, we will also be getting the guidelines around this repeal.”

He stated that the removal of the E-Levy requires technical adjustments to various systems, ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting mobile money and other electronic transactions.

Read also: E-levy was a massive error committed by Ofori-Atta, it was a bad policy – Dr. Ashigbey

“There will be some technical work that has to be done to make sure that we can reset E-Levy to zero. The thing about it is that it has effects on various systems as well. So all of that work will be done.”

While acknowledging the urgency of implementing the repeal, he stressed the need for caution to avoid unintended consequences.

“Because we know that this is something that will inure to the benefit of our customers, we want to do it quickly. But we also have to make sure we don’t have any unintended consequences,” Dr Ashibey added.

Parliament passed the E-Levy repeal bill on Wednesday, March 26, and it now awaits President John Mahama’s assent.

Source: Prince Adu-Owusu ( My JoyOnline)

MasterCard partners Ethio Telecom to boost financial inclusion

Matercard

MasterCard is seeking to leverage Ethio Telecoms’ telebirr platform to enhance digital financial services across Ethiopia.

The collaboration, which aims to significantly expand financial inclusion and promote sustainable economic growth, was discussed during a strategic meeting between Ethio Telecom’s CEO, Frehiwot Tamru, and a MasterCard delegation led by Mark Elliott, president of MasterCard Africa.

The meeting focused on identifying collaborative opportunities to leverage both Ethio Telecom’s Telebirr platform and Mastercard’s global financial solutions. 

By combining these resources, the partners aim to create new and accessible digital financial services to drive local and regional economic progress.

Tamru, the CEO of Ethio Telecom, one of Africa’s largest mobile operator with 77.7 million voice call subscribers and 43.5 million mobile data users, emphasised the company’s commitment to this transformative initiative. 

She highlighted Ethio Telecom’s extensive customer base and robust infrastructure as key assets that will unlock new opportunities for millions of Ethiopians. 

Additionally, she showcased Telebirr’s digital capabilities, noting its significant impact on enhancing user experiences. 

By enabling users to perform a range of digital financial services, such as money transfers and bill payments, directly from their mobile devices, Tamru underlined that Telebirr has played a crucial role in advancing financial inclusion in Ethiopia.

Elliott echoed these sentiments when he praised Ethio Telecom’s impressive customer growth. 

He emphasised the partnership’s potential and expressed confidence that this collaboration would open doors for greater financial inclusion in Ethiopia. 

According to an Ethio Telecom LinkedIn post, Elliott also reaffirmed MasterCard’s desire to work closely with Ethio Telecom to drive these changes.

“Both leaders committed to accelerating the implementation of this transformative collaboration, which is expected to significantly enhance Ethiopia’s competitiveness in the global digital economy while fostering an inclusive financial environment that promotes sustainable growth and wealth creation across the country,” the post reads.

Source: Extensia

Eswatini launches 5G, accelerating its digital transformation

5G

State-owned operator Eswatini Mobile announced the launch of 5G in the kingdom on Monday, March 24. This initiative could support the government’s digital transformation ambitions, as it seeks to integrate the technology to make digital services more efficient and accessible.

“The launch of 5G is not just about improving internet speeds; it marks a fundamental shift in how Emaswati connect, communicate, and conduct business. From improving educational opportunities to driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and empowering communities, 5G is set to transform every aspect of life in the kingdom,” the state-owned company said in a statement.

In a study published in 2021, the American technology company Dell Technologies already explained that 5G guarantees transmission speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G or previous networks, as well as reduced latencies and an unprecedented level of network capacity. The company adds that this technology will pave the way for even more advanced and innovative applications, enabling increased connectivity in real time and at any time, thus facilitating the digital transformation of various sectors.

Meanwhile, Eswatini was ranked 113th in the world by the United Nations according to the e-Government Development Index (EGDI) in 2024. The kingdom recorded a score of 0.6081 out of 1. This is above the African average (0.4247 out of 1), but below the world average (0.6382 out of 1).

Furthermore, a 2024 study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) found that Eswatini’s digital readiness is “systematic,” meaning the country is making structured progress in key areas of digital transformation based on identified priorities. “With an overall score of 2.6, Eswatini demonstrates progress across several dimensions of digital development, while highlighting areas requiring additional attention and investment.”

It’s worth remembering, however, that to seize the digital transformation opportunities offered by 5G, Eswatini authorities must invest in expanding the country’s network. Currently, the latest-generation mobile technology is only available in the cities of Matsapha and Manzini. Moreover, Swedish company Ericsson estimates the basic cost of deploying 5G in a country at between $3 billion and $8 billion. The Swedish company adds that an additional investment of 20 to 35 percent is then required to expand network coverage across the country.

Authorities also need to address the issue of 5G adoption, which requires compatible smartphones. The high cost of these devices could hamper 5G adoption and limit the use of digital services, whether government-sponsored or offered by startups.

Source: Extensia

MTN Group and Airtel Africa agree to network sharing in Uganda and Nigeria

MTN

MTN Group and Airtel Africa have signed agreements to share network infrastructure in Uganda and Nigeria, aiming to improve cost efficiency, expand coverage, and enhance mobile services, particularly in rural areas.

MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita emphasized the growing demand for digital and financial services, highlighting the benefits of resource-sharing within regulatory frameworks. Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar noted that while both companies compete in the market, infrastructure-sharing helps drive digital inclusion and cost efficiency.

This collaboration aligns with global trends in telecoms, allowing operators to improve service quality while managing costs. Following these agreements, MTN and Airtel Africa are exploring similar opportunities in other markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia, focusing on RAN and fibre infrastructure sharing.

Both companies remain independent competitors and may engage in further partnerships with other operators in different markets.

Source: MTN

Huawei holds Digital Intelligence Talent Development Forum

Huawei

During the just-ended Mobile World Congress 2025, Huawei held the Digital Intelligence Talent Development Forum, attracting more than 100 customers from all over the world.

At the Forum, Huawei launched the Digital Intelligence Talent Development Service Solution 2.0.

It brings in new talent standards, new competence models, and new learning experiences to help customers establish a workforce that can effectively propel digital transformation.

Mr. Jason Liu, president of Huawei Learning & Certification Services, said Huawei would continue to cultivate comprehensive talent in line with the times, enabling individuals and organizations to thrive in the AI era.

He said learning ability was productivity, and with efficient knowledge management, learning platforms, and AI learning copilot, “we can build a team that keeps learning and pushes productivity to new levels.”

He said in 2025, Huawei would launch the “Industry Elites in the ICT Classroom Project” for enterprise customers and the “Leading ICT Talent Cultivation Project” for university students for the empowerment of digital intelligence talent.

The expert behind the “expert model” must be a comprehensive talent. AI technology is driving the deep integration of DICT and OT. The traditional “T-shaped” talent model is shifting towards a more versatile “π-shaped ladder” talent model.

Everyone will have a “6A” learning experience: any time, any where, any device, any knowledge, all online, AI learning copilot.

Mr. Juanvi Martínez, business director of Mercer in Spain, emphasized empowering staff to continuously learn and quickly acquire new skills to adapt to the evolving demands of work in the AI era.

He said generative AI would transform core tasks in most jobs and increase productivity, adding that to foster AI adoption, from the HR perspective, “we should make sure that we share the ‘digital dividend’ with our workforce.”

He said the transformation would lead to emerging skills, requiring continuous up- and reskilling.

Mr Martínez said generative AI would impact workflows, work design and strategic work planning and this would democratic knowledge and creativity, bringing gaps in skills and expertise

Mr. Antonio de Luis Acevedo, director of Spain’s FUNDAE, shared views on national ICT talent development, stressing collaborative efforts.

He said since 2019, FUNDAE had partnered with Huawei, and more than 200,000 practitioners had learned Huawei’s courses, adding that in 2024, FUNDAE cooperated with Huawei in Spain Academy to enhance digital skills.

Madam Rumeysa Kaymakci, director of Turkcell Academy, said digital transformation went beyond technology and emphasized the importance of talent.

She said the Academy had launched the “Technical Leadership Programme” and “Digital Master Programme” to accelerate talent digital-intelligence transformation.

Source: GNA

Helios Towers Expands Mobile Connectivity Across Africa and the Middle East

Helios Tower

Helios Towers, a leading independent telecommunications infrastructure company, is playing a pivotal role in enhancing mobile connectivity across Africa and the Middle East. By providing shared telecom tower infrastructure, Helios Towers enables mobile network operators (MNOs) to expand and improve their coverage more efficiently and cost-effectively. This approach not only accelerates the rollout of mobile services but also reduces the environmental footprint associated with building duplicate infrastructure. ​

The company’s operations span several countries, including Ghana, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they have established an extensive portfolio of telecom towers. This infrastructure supports the increasing demand for mobile connectivity driven by the region’s young and growing populations. By facilitating better network coverage, Helios Towers contributes to digital inclusion, connecting individuals and communities to essential services such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. ​

Helios Towers’ business model promotes the sharing of tower infrastructure among multiple MNOs, allowing for quicker, more reliable, and cost-effective delivery of mobile connectivity. This strategy not only supports the expansion and quality of mobile networks but also aligns with sustainable development goals by minimizing environmental impact. ​

As mobile penetration continues to grow in Africa and the Middle East, the role of infrastructure providers like Helios Towers becomes increasingly critical in bridging the digital divide and fostering socio-economic development across the continent.​

Source: Extensia